Beta blockers

Find out more about beta blocker medicines, including the different types, possible side effects, and who can and cannot take them.

What beta blockers are for

Beta blockers can help treat problems affecting your heart and blood vessels by slowing down your heartbeat.

They're often used to treat:

• angina
• high blood pressure
• atrial fibrillation (a type of heart rhythm problem)
• some types of heart failure

You may also be offered a beta blocker if you recently had a heart attack.

Beta blockers can also have an effect on other parts of the body, such as your eyes and nerves. So they're also sometimes used to treat other conditions, such as glaucoma, anxiety and migraines.

Types of beta blockers

There are 2 main types of beta blockers:

• selective beta blockers – which are mainly used to treat heart problems
• non-selective beta blockers – which can be used to treat non-heart related conditions, such as anxiety and migraines

Beta blockers usually come as tablets or capsules that you swallow. There are also eye drops for glaucoma.

Side effects of beta blockers

Like all medicines, beta blockers can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them.

Common side effects of beta blockers can include:

• cold feet and hands
• dizziness
• tiredness (fatigue)
• insomnia
• having vivid dreams or nightmares
• problems getting or keeping an erection

If you feel dizzy after taking a beta blocker, do not drive, ride a bike or use machinery until the dizziness stops.

If side effects are bothering you or do not go away, speak to your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Who can take beta blockers

Most adults can take beta blockers. They are also sometimes prescribed to children.

But beta blockers are not suitable for everyone. For example, they may not be suitable if you have:

• a breathing problem, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• heart block, where your heart beats too slowly or your heartbeat is not steady
• poorly controlled heart failure
• low blood pressure (hypotension)

Before using beta blockers, tell your doctor if you have any medical conditions.

Some beta blockers can be taken while you're pregnant or breastfeeding. Speak to your doctor about the best medicine for you.

Taking beta blockers with alcohol or other medicines

Taking beta blockers with some other medicines or alcohol can cause side effects.

For example, it may cause problems if you take beta blockers with things such as:

• alcohol – this can make you feel dizzy and light-headed
• painkillers such as ibuprofen, diclofenac or naproxen – known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• medicines used to treat high blood pressure
• some medicines for an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)